The Karnataka government has issued an advisory, dos and don'ts with respect to the threat from the spread of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) disease in China.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of HMPV in Karnataka.
Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR’s ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country.
Amid the rising HMPV scare, the top medical body — the Indian Council of Medical Research or ICMR — on Monday alerted that the virus is already in "circulation" globally, including India.
However, it noted that India is well-equipped to handle any potential increase in respiratory illnesses.
“With recent reports in the media about the spread of HMPV disease in China, the government of India, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a statement on Jan 4 that HMPV is like any other respiratory virus which causes a common cold and flu-like symptoms during winter season, especially among the younger and older age groups,” the Department stated.
"Currently, there is no need to panic regarding the spread of HMPV and the Health Department is monitoring the situation closely in coordination with the Director National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare,” the release stated.
The department of Health and Family Welfare in Karnataka has analysed the data of prevailing respiratory infections like common cold, ILI and SARI within the state and there is no significant increase in the reported number of cases in December 2024 compared to the previous year, the release underlined.
The department of Health and Family Welfare urges the citizens to follow dos and don'ts to protect themselves and prevent spread of infections.
The people are advised to cover mouth and nose with handkerchief, tissue paper, while coughing, sneezing; wash hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer; avoid crowded places; stay away from public places while having fever, cough, sneezing.
The people are advised not to reuse tissue paper and handkerchief; close contact with sick persons, sharing of towels, linen etc; frequent touching of eyes, nose and mouth; spitting in public places and self-medication without consulting the physician.
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory infections, such as colds.
First identified in 2001, evidence suggests it has been circulating since at least 1958.
Human Metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus that causes upper and lower respiratory infections. It's most common form can be cold. It is a seasonal virus, commonly observed in winter and early spring, akin to Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza.
Recognising HMPV symptoms
HMPV symptoms often resemble those of other respiratory infections, such as COVID-19, influenza or RSV. Common signs include
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has detected two cases of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) in Karnataka.
Both cases were identified through routine surveillance for multiple respiratory viral pathogens, as part of ICMR’s ongoing efforts to monitor respiratory illnesses across the country.
Cough, fever, Nasal congestion, shortness of breath and sore throat.
In severe cases, particularly in young children, older adults, or those with weakened immune systems, the infection may lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia.
HMPV and COVID-19 share several characteristics
Both affect individuals of all ages, with young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems being most vulnerable.
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